NU-HOPE and Glades Electric: Spreading Holiday Cheer to Seniors in Need
For low-income seniors in Highlands County, the holiday season has become a little brighter, thanks to the ongoing generosity of Glades Electric Charitable Trust. This month, NU-HOPE Elder Care Services received a $3,500 grant from the Trust to support its Holiday Baskets for Seniors program—a partnership that has continued for an impressive nine years.
Each year, this program delivers 50 seniors specially prepared baskets filled with nonperishable food items and a few extra treats, ensuring they feel remembered and cared for during the holiday season.
“The holidays can be a particularly difficult time for seniors who are already facing financial and social challenges,” shared Debbie Slade, NU-HOPE Executive Director. “Thanks to Glades Electric, we can continue to provide these baskets, which mean so much to those who receive them.”
The Holiday Baskets for Seniors program has deep roots in the community, beginning over 15 years ago as a collaboration between St. Vincent de Paul and NU-HOPE. When St. Vincent shifted its focus, NU-HOPE stepped up to preserve the program, even tapping into its own limited funds to keep seniors fed through the holidays.
When Glades Electric Charitable Trust learned of NU-HOPE’s efforts, they didn’t hesitate to step in. “Glades agreed that seniors in our community shouldn’t have to worry about food during the holidays,” Slade explained. “Their commitment has been unwavering, even as rising food costs make it harder to stretch every dollar.”
This year, Glades Electric increased its donation to $3,500, allowing NU-HOPE to continue providing not only the essentials but also something extra—a special treat that many seniors on tight budgets rarely enjoy.
The baskets, filled with shelf-stable items to last beyond the holidays, are distributed to those with the greatest need. NU-HOPE’s case managers carefully screen and identify recipients, ensuring the program reaches the most vulnerable members of the community.
“This program is about more than food,” Slade emphasized. “It’s about delivering a message of love and support from the community. Each basket represents hope, care, and a reminder that these seniors are not forgotten.”
For nearly a decade, Glades Electric has helped transform the Holiday Baskets for Seniors into a cherished tradition of compassion and community care. With their support, along with contributions from others in the community, NU-HOPE ensures that local seniors can look forward to a brighter, warmer holiday season.
“This program wouldn’t be possible without partners like Glades Electric,” said Slade. “Together, we’re making a difference, one basket—and one smile—at a time.”